Candidates, Parties, EDAs

Candidates and Official Agents

How to Become a Candidate

There are two types of candidates in Nova Scotia: those who are affiliated with a registered political party, and independents. If you are planning to run for election as an MLA representing a party, the party must first register with Nova Scotia's Chief Electoral Officer.

Candidate Registration

Candidates must register with Elections Nova Scotia if they receive a contribution or transfer, or if they have incurred an expense. Form 1-1 must be completed and submitted for approval by the Chief Electoral Officer. The Application for registration must also provide a statement signed by the leader of the registered party that the registered candidate is an endorsed candidate of the registered party. Candidate may register at any time. Nominated candidates require an auditor who is registered with the Public Accountants Board of Nova Scotia:PABNS.com

Guides For Official Agent of Candidate

Guide For Official Agent of Candidate

Once an election is called, to become a formally nominated candidate, you must:

file your completed nomination paper (Form 105, Candidate Nomination ) with the Returning Officer in the electoral district in which you plan to run not later than 2:00 pm on Nomination Day, which is the 20th day before election day

pay a deposit of $200

include a letter from the Party Leader endorsing your candidacy if you are running for a registered political party

have your Nomination Paper signed by at least five electors who would be qualified to vote for you. However, it is a good idea to have a few more signatures just in case there is a problem with someone's qualifications

appoint an Official Agent and an Auditor. Candidates must not handle their own finances.

A Guide to the Nomination Process

Once you've done all that and the Returning Officer signs the receipt for your deposit on your Nomination Paper, you are considered "officially nominated."

What else does it take to become a candidate? You must

be an eligible elector, i.e., be at least 18 years of age on election day, be a Canadian citizen, and a resident of Nova Scotia for six months preceeding the issuance of the writ, and